Gay marriage in the Netherlands

1983: A major rewriting of the Dutch Constitution bans discrimination. Sexual orientation is not explicitly stated.

1990: The Dutch Supreme Court rejects the demands of 3 homosexual couples who wanted to get married. However, the Court’s obiter dictum tells lawmakers they can legislate on the issue.

1994: A civil partnership bill is introduced to the lawmaking process.

1998: The civil partnership bill is voted and applies to both homosexuals and heterosexuals. On April 1, adoption is opened to single and non-married individuals regardless of their sexual orientation.

1999: On July 8, the bill on same-sex marriage is brought before the Dutch congress.

2000: The Lower Chamber votes on the same-sex marriage bill: 109 in favour, 33 against. The Higher Chamber votes ‘yes’ on December 19. Queen Beatrix ratifies the law on December 21.

2001: The law legalizing same-sex marriage comes into effect on April 1.